Temperament

The following is a description of the Cane Corso Behavior & Temperament according the breed standard set by the country of origin - FCI Standard No. 343:

"The Cane Corso is "intelligent, active and even-minded. He is an unequalled watch and protection dog. Docile and affectionate with the owner, loving with children and with the family. If necessary he becomes a terrible and brave protector of people, house and property. He is easily trained."

Due to their protective instincts, the Cane Corso has a very discerning nature that can lend them to be wary of strangers but they should never be aggressive. Wary is defined as - marked by keen caution, cunning, and watchful prudence especially in detecting and escaping danger. Wariness does not include any form of aggression. An aggressive, unfriendly, unapproachable Corso is incorrect according to the breed standard. With proper selection when breeding and socialization at an early age, the Cane
Corso should be a functional member of society and be able to accompany its family in any public location without incident. The standard describes a well rounded, stable dog that, when necessary, will take on the role of protector. The Cane Corso often possesses a dominant behavior. Both sexes may challenge for the role of leader among their human family and canine
pack.

These are strong, dominant dogs and the role of leadership by the owner needs to be established early on. They are best suited for the experienced dog owner. Contrary to information provided by many breeders and aspiring breeders, these dogs should not possess the aggressive nature they advocate. The true Corso should not have Fila like temperament. Equally they are not
Labradors and do not have the naturally friendly, outgoing nature that a Labrador should possess. They should be indifferent when approached and should only react when a real threat is present. The Corso is a working breed and due to its history of boar hunting, guardian of people & farms and butcher's dog, they are required to function under high levels of stress. A
Corso that cannot maintain its dictated temperament under stressful situations is one with incorrect temperament for the breed and should not be used for breeding.

Their desire is to be with the family and do best living indoors as long as sufficient exercise is provided. Though they are tolerable of most weather conditions, they cannot tolerate solitude. Isolating the Cane Corso can lead to nuisance barking, destructive behavior and other temperament problems.

Unfortunately, at the present time, the majority of the American version of the Corso do not possess the proper temperament for this breed. Most tend to be shy, fearful or aggressive by nature. Cane Corsos originating from the country of origin (Italy) tend to possess a more outgoing, stable temperament than their American counterpart.

Breed Info